Musk Mocks Ambani in Satellite Battle for India's Internet Market

Elon Musk is seeking access to one of the globe's largest internet markets, going up against the billionaire whose Jio network serves over 520 million Indians.

On Friday, Musk ridiculed Mukesh Ambani as the "real boss" of India for blocking Starlink, SpaceX's satellite broadband service. At the same time, Ambani's Jio is developing its own competitor.

Musk's Mock Letter to "Prime Minister Ambani"

Ambani does not hold any official government role. He is the chairman of Reliance Industries, the parent company of Jio. According to Forbes, his fortune stands at $86.3 billion on the latest India rich list.

Nevertheless, Musk referred to him as prime minister, apologising for not recognising that Ambani was "the real boss of India."

"Naturally, you would prefer to maintain your monopolistic exploitation of the great people of India, but would you nonetheless consider allowing Starlink to compete?" said Musk.

Inside Jio's $10 Billion Plan to Rival Starlink

Jio intends to build a constellation of roughly 1,600 satellites. Industry analysts estimate the cost between $10 billion and $15 billion, as reported by Business Today.

On paper, the project is larger in scope. Jio's design aims for up to 5 terabits per second of capacity across India. Starlink has approval for 600 gigabits, according to Business Standard, meaning Jio's capacity is about eight times greater.

However, Jio's network is still several years from completion. Its first test flight is scheduled for September 2027, with the full deployment of 1,600 satellites targeted for 2035, Angel One reported.

Jio also signed an agreement in March 2025 to sell Starlink equipment once the Indian government approves the service.

Who Is Actually Holding Starlink Back?

Starlink obtained its Indian licence in June 2025. However, it still requires security clearance from the Home Ministry and spectrum allocation from the government. Jio's satellite unit is waiting for the same two approvals.

The government dismissed allegations of unfair treatment as "baseless and misconceived," according to Business Standard.

"India does not allow a monopoly in any sector," said Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

Starlink claims it has already constructed 20 ground stations in India. Jio's first test flight remains 11 months away.